Finding Your Unique Creative Voice
Art is not a race for perfection; it is a journey of self-discovery. Since 1988, I have guided thousands of students to find joy, therapy, and a quiet space to simply be themselves.
In this video, I talk about the many reasons why art is important for adults, from reducing stress to boosting creativity.
As an art teacher, I often get asked for tips for parents. Here, I share some simple ways to encourage and motivate your children's creativity at home.
Why is art important for children? In this video, I explain how it helps develop focus, improve coordination, express emotions, and most importantly, gives them 'me time'.
In an interview with a young student, I discuss the changing role of an artist in our society and the many career paths available today.
A student asks me about my biggest art influencers. I share my love for the great masters like Van Gogh and Monet and how their work inspires my own.
Art gives us the ability to express ourselves and our unique emotions, thoughts, and experiences. It's a way to cultivate self-expression and boost cognitive skills.
A little Monday motivation for all the amazing young artists out there, encouraging them to embark on an artistic adventure and explore art as a subject.
Being creative is not a hobby, it is a way of life. I started teaching in 1988, and I truly believe everyone has a creative side waiting to be discovered.
People often ask what and how I teach. In this video, I explain my belief that everyone has a creative side, and my goal is to provide a supportive environment to bring it out.
Are you afraid of doing art? Don't be. My pro tip is to just pick up the brush and paint your heart out. Everything you make is a piece of art.
About My Teaching Philosophy
I don't teach to create perfect artists; I teach to help you feel at home with your own creativity. In my studio, we don't worry about 'right' or 'wrong' lines. Whether you are picking up a charcoal pencil for the first time or returning to painting after years, my focus is on helping you find a rhythm that feels authentic to you, not on meeting an industry standard.
After teaching over 30,000 students, I have come to realize that my greatest role is not to dictate, but to listen. My studio in Vile Parle is a space where the noise of the outside world fades away. We focus on the process rather than just the final product.
Why Art is My Tapassya
For many of my students, this room is their 'me time.' They come to escape the pressures of work or school, and here, they find they can just breathe. I have seen children who struggle to focus suddenly find calm with a paintbrush in hand, and adults who thought they had 'no talent' create works that surprise even them.
My Approach to Teaching
I keep my batches small, usually 6 to 10 students, because I believe art is personal. I guide you based on your interests—whether that is sketching, acrylics, or traditional Indian crafts like Lippan art—rather than forcing you into a rigid syllabus.
- No Judgment: You are free to make mistakes. In fact, we learn most from them.
- Beginner Friendly: Most of my adult students start with zero experience.
- Therapeutic Focus: Art is a form of healing. It gives us a way to express emotions we cannot put into words.
If you have been looking for an art class in Mumbai where you can just be yourself and explore your creative side, come join us. It is never too late to start your journey.
Shefali Raj
Hi, I am Shefali. I have been teaching art since 1988, and honestly, my students teach me just as much as I teach them. I believe every person is a sundar sa phool (beautiful flower) waiting to bloom, and I am just here to help you find your colors.
Find your path to creativity
Search for specific courses or artistic styles that interest you.
More from Art Classes and Courses by Shefali Raj
More services by Shefali Raj